At the protests taking place across Brazil there are flags, inflatable puppets and even superheroes. This man, dressed as Batman, is holding a sign reading "bye darling". 

Image source, AFP

Anti-government protesters are calling for the impeachment of President Rousseff in Sao Paulo, Brazil's largest city. BBC Brasil's reporter in Sao Paulo, Felipe Souza, says people are queuing to have their picture taken with people dressed up as ex-President Lula and President Rousseff wearing prison uniforms. Inflatable puppets of the two have also become popular at the protests. 

Image source, AFP

Here is a closer look at the problems Brazil is facing - and what has gone wrong since President Rousseff was re-elected for a second term in October 2014.  

The leader of the governing Workers' Party in the lower house, Afonso Florence, has jumped to the defense of President Rousseff. He says that Ms Rousseff continues to have the backing of Brazilians who oppose what he called a "coup". He says millions have taken to the streets to defend democracy. 

Party leaders are taking turns to express their views. First to speak was the leader of the Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB), Leonardo Picciani. The party was until recently part of the governing coalition. In a serious blow to Ms Rousseff, just weeks ago, the party voted to leave the coalition. Mr Picciani encouraged members of his party to vote for the impeachment proceedings to go ahead. 

BBC News takes a look at some of the potential contenders for the Brazilian presidency if incumbent Dilma Rousseff is impeached.

BBC Brasil's Mariana Schreiber is observing proceedings from inside the lower house. She says opposition lawmakers have draped themselves in the Brazilian flag while those supporting the government are wearing red ties. Lawmaker Jean Wyllys has opted for a red sweater. 

Following the scuffles which broke out at the start of the session, MP Jovair Arantes calls for calm. "No one will win this debate by shouting," he says. 

Mr Arantes headed the congressional committee set up to analyse whether Ms Rousseff's impeachment should proceed. 

BBC Brasil's reporter in Brasilia, Ricardo Senra, is out on the streets of the capital. He says many protesters are trying to shield themselves from the intense heat and sun wherever they can, such as this bridge. 

Lower house vote: An impeachment vote is under way in the lower house. A two-thirds majority is required for it to go forward to the Senate.

Senate vote on trial: If Ms Rousseff case is sent to the Senate, a simple majority is enough to suspend her for up to 180 days while she is put on trial. Vice-President Michel Temer would step in during this period.

Impeachment vote: For Ms Rousseff to be removed from office permanently, two-thirds of the Senate would have to vote in favour. Mr Temer would remain president for an interim period should this happen.

Read more about it here: Could Dilma Rousseff be impeached?

Lawmaker Jovair Arantes, who headed the congressional committee which was set up to analyse whether President Dilma Rousseff should face an impeachment vote, is speaking. 

Members of the lower house have got up from their seats and there is some pushing and shoving. Supporters of Ms Rousseff are shouting "There won't be a coup!"

A former ally of Ms Rousseff, Eduardo Cunha of the Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB) has become one of her fiercest rivals. He is one of the main proponents of her impeachment.

Brazil's Congress has begun its session on whether to approve impeachment proceedings against President Rousseff. It could be hours before we know the outcome.

Supporters of President Rousseff and anti-government demonstrators have gathered in the capital, Brasilia, ahead of the vote.

Image source, Reuters

Image source, AFP

The lower house of congress in Brazil is due to open its session shortly to decide whether to go ahead with President Dilma Rousseff's impeachment. We will be bringing you updates as this unfolds.